What they say

Most national-level bonus marks in the gaokao for students with special talents, such as in sports and the arts, will be cancelled in 2015. A total of 63 percent of such bonuses at the provincial level will be cut.

Yuan Guiren, education minister

China's economic development has entered a transition period and the government has stressed the importance of innovation. In education, it is important to nurture innovation and ability at all stages, from basic to higher education. Examinations can be more flexible in choosing students with strong personalities and the potential to be innovative. Gaokao reform is also about serving the needs of society. In the transition period of economic change, the social environment and drive for innovation will offer an unprecedented opportunity to nurture talent.